At Kevin J Daily DDS, we provide patients with implant supported dentures to give them a dependable and durable alternative to dentures, dental bridges, and traditional dental implants. If you live in Santa Cruz, CA or the 95062 area, we encourage you to call (831) 580-1141 and schedule a consultation so we can examine you and determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.

The Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures

If you are looking for a durable and comfortable way to replace missing teeth, you should consider this solution. Implant supported dentures make it easier to eat your favorite meals and engage in normal daily activities, because they will remain securely in your mouth. You will not need to worry about them coming loose or slipping out of place while eating, speaking, or engaging in high-impact activities. Instead, you can rest assured that your teeth will be secure regardless of what you do. Not only will this prevent unnecessary embarrassment, but it will also make life more comfortable, since your dentures will not be rubbing against your gums, causing irritation.

The Process of Getting Implant Supported Dentures: The ProcedureBefore we can begin the actual procedure, we will need to examine your gums to ensure you do not have any gum disease that needs to be addressed. If you do, we will treat it first. Next, we will take x-rays to determine the density of your jawbone and if it is sufficient for supporting the implants. Typically it will be, since these implants are shorter than traditional ones. We will then take an impression or mold of your mouth along with measurements. This information will be sent to the lab so they can create your new set of false teeth to our exact specifications.

When it is time for the implant procedure, we will have you come back in and numb your gums and provide you with anesthesia. Typically, we will then place four small implants under your gum line. These implants will serve as anchors that your new set of teeth can attach to. Once they are firmly in place, we can snap in your dentures. These implants are an alternative to simply hoping your dentures stay in place or using adhesive to ensure they do. With implants to secure to, your teeth will not fall out, even if you are going on a run or eating pizza. For more information, call our Santa Cruz, CA dental office at 831-580-1141.

Frequently Asked Questions About Implant Supported Dentures

Does every dentist perform this procedure?No, if you live in the Santa Cruz area, only certain dentists offer this type of prosthetic. We perform the procedure on a regular basis, because we understand the clear benefit of providing patients with a durable set of replacement teeth.

Can anyone qualify for implant supported dentures?For the most part, everyone can get the procedure. However, there are health considerations that must be made. We need to examine you to determine if you have any signs of gum disease or other infections that need to be corrected first. Simultaneously, there may be other health conditions that impact the procedure. Diabetics, for example, can receive implant supported dentures, but may need to wait for their blood sugar to be under control before getting started. We can examine you in our 95062 dental office and let you know if we anticipate any roadblocks.

Will this procedure work if I have worn dentures for a long time?Yes, if you live in California and have worn dentures for years, you can upgrade your prosthetic. This is an ideal way to do so, because it gives you some of the stability you can expect from dental implants without the need for a drawn out procedure.

Does this procedure hurt?No, when you visit our office, we will provide you with any necessary sedation. At Kevin J Daily DDS, we understand that dental procedures can be intimidating, and we will take steps to ensure that you remain comfortable and relaxed during the entire appointment.

What are mini-implants?Some people will use the terms “mini-implants” and “implant supported dentures” interchangeably. While there are times where they are accomplishing the same thing, this is not always the case. A mini-implant is a titanium screw just like you would expect to see with a traditional implant. The difference is that it is much smaller. This makes it ideal for those suffering from a lack of bone density. Traditional implants require significant density since the implant itself is so long. This is not the case with mini-implants, making them a better solution for someone who has worn dentures for years and has suffered resorption as a result.

What is the recovery time?Within days of undergoing a procedure for implant supported dentures, you will start to feel like your normal self. You should be careful to avoid eating anything hard or difficult to chew, like a steak, along with anything sharp, like tortilla chips. This type of food can cause further irritation and only serve to prolong your recovery time. Instead, focus on eating soft foods that are easy to chew and can be chewed quickly. Things like steamed vegetables, yogurt, and warm soup are excellent options. If you watch what you eat, take it easy, ice the area, and use ibuprofen, you should feel better within a couple days. Since this is a less invasive procedure, the recovery time is much faster than if you were to undergo surgery for traditional dental implants.

What is the difference between implant supported dentures and traditional dentures?Traditional dentures are designed to come out every night. They remain in place by wrapping around your gums and creating a suction effect enhanced by denture paste. This can be messy, and if your dentures slip, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. With implant dentures, your dentures snap into position, secured in place by the implants themselves. Your new teeth will look natural and be entirely secure, adding further enjoyment to your daily life. To learn more about this procedure, call 831-580-1141. Dr. Daily will be happy to meet with you and discuss all your options.

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Definition of Prosthodontic Terminology

Abutment

A connector, placed on, or built into, the top of the dental implant, to connect the implant to the replacement tooth or teeth.

Bridge

Multiple replacement teeth that are fixed in place via attachment to dental implants, natural adjacent teeth, or a combination of the two.

Crown

A replacement tooth, custom made to match your natural teeth.

Dental Implant

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.

Osseointegration

Fusing to, or integrating with, bone. Dental implants placed in the bone as substitutes for tooth roots form a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth when your natural bone grows against the implant through a process called osseointegration.